Thank you for the opportunity to provide input regarding the scientific community’s priorities for the reauthorization for the America COMPETES Act.

Scientific research is an important engine that powers our nation’s economic growth. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is the federal agency that supports the fundamental scientific research that is the foundation upon which we build knowledge and inspire innovation. Through competitive, peer-reviewed research grants, the NSF funds discoveries that will help to solve the most challenging problems facing society. NSF research, education, and training programs lead to new patents, prepare a highly skilled workforce, and stimulate the creation of new jobs. Many of the groundbreaking ideas that have enhanced the nation’s economic competitiveness or improved the quality of our lives have grown from NSF-funded research.

These efforts, however, require a sustained federal investment. Unpredictable annual swings in federal funding disrupt research programs, create uncertainty in the research community, and stall the development of the next great idea. Funding for basic research has been stagnant in recent years, particularly when adjusted for inflation. Given the importance of research and development to our economic growth and global competitiveness, Congress should make new, multi-year investments in NSF.

We encourage the Committee to pursue a reauthorization bill that builds on the following principles:

NSF should maintain its focus on fundamental discovery. The agency’s mission should not be driven towards commercial outcomes.

Reauthorization of the NSF should outline a path for new investments. Sustained growth in funding is needed for programs that support basic research and science education.

Congress should recognize the unique role of NSF as the only agency supporting the full breadth of scientific research and education.

Congress should not pick winners and losers among NSF research programs. The National Science Board and leadership of the NSF must retain the authority and nimbleness to allocate funding among the disciplines.

Legislation should support the existing merit review system. NSF’s peer review system has a proven track record of supporting high quality research that advances our knowledge and leads to solutions for the challenges facing modern society.

Again, we thank you for your leadership on this issue and hope that this and other science-related legislation might move through the Senate in a bipartisan way.